Molecular Hydrogen

I love hydrogen supplements. So should you. Since starting my morning—and often afternoon—routine of making hydrogen drinks in the kitchen, I have come to appreciate the surge of energy lasting many hours, as well as a host of other benefits.

Most of all, I am amazed how easy hydrogen supplements are to use considering how much they do for you, and how well they complement the supplements I already take—seeming to make them all more effective.

I typically use one or two effervescing Active H2 Ultra tablets in 8–16 ounces of water. Then I like to open one Megahydrate capsule directly in the effervescing water. I wait about 90 seconds to let the tablets stop “fizzing” and then I drink immediately. Allowing the drink to sit for a few minutes is okay, but the sooner you drink it, the higher the concentration of hydrogen.

Note: I used Vital Reaction tablets in this video, but my preferred product is the new, improved Active H2 Ultra (tablets) which dissolves in less than one minute—faster than other hydrogen tablet formulas—thereby preserving more hydrogen in the water.

HYDROGEN SUPPLEMENTS ARE EFFECTIVE

Hydrogen supplements are among the newer, cutting-edge nutritional formulas available to support optimal health. More than 500 scientific articles now support the therapeutic potential hydrogen for essentially every organ system and in 150 human disease models, according to the non-profit Molecular Hydrogen Foundation. In fact, hydrogen is rapidly incorporated into medicine, sports medicine, peak performance, elite fitness, and more.

Hydrogen is an antioxidant. It is also an extremely small molecule that can penetrate even the tiniest cellular compartments. This helps explain how hydrogen works to offer free-radical defense throughout the entire body.

The medical and scientific literature is clear. Hydrogen’s modes of action:

HYDROGEN IS SAFE

Molecular hydrogen exhibits great safety, and it is regarded as safe for use in the body. It is shown no toxicity even in high concentrations.

Safety standards have long been established for high concentrations of hydrogen for inhalation largely because of the history of high-pressure H2 gas used in deep-water diving gas mixtures for preventing decompression sickness.

Notably, H2 gas combusts only at temperatures higher than 527 °C, and it explodes by chain reaction with oxygen (O2) only in the range of H2 concentration (4–75%, vol/vol).

Molecular hydrogen is used for medical applications safely by several ingestion methods including inhalation of 1–4% hydrogen gas, for example, which exhibits great effectiveness. All these factors mean that hydrogen is safe, easy-to-use, and effective for therapeutic purposes.

DRINKING HYDROGEN-INFUSED WATER

According to the Molecular Hydrogen Foundation, drinking H2-rich water is the easiest, and often the most effective, method for obtaining hydrogen.

Drinking hydrogen-infused water is easy to do, and convenient as you can drink it at home or while traveling. Effective hydrogen products HPDI carries include Active H2 tablets and Megahydrate capsules.

As noted, I make one or two hydrogen drinks daily, first in the morning and then often again in the afternoon. I drink them on an empty stomach. I enjoy a significant energy boost, which helps power me through my day. I gain other benefits, including improved athletic performance, noticeably faster recovery from exercise, and an overall greater sense of well-being.

I highly recommend you try hydrogen supplements for yourself, and then consider them for your clients or patients. Our experience is that most people are pleasantly surprised by the results they get from hydrogen supplements, especially if they have a need for exceptional free-radical defense, or stand to benefit from the proven effects hydrogen uniquely provides (see list above).

Once you try hydrogen, you will want to continue taking it because the benefits are so significant. Let the power of hydrogen starting working for you on a daily basis!

Do you know HPDI has a foundational supplements system? And that HPDI’s system of Foundational Supplements is part of the comprehensive HPDI supplements system?

Foundational supplements are basic supplements providing essential nutrients that should be the “foundation” of everyone’s daily regimen. They are the foundation of a complete nutritional supplement program. They are the like the base of a pyramid in a complete nutritional supplement program.

All six HPDI foundational supplements are designed to provide a complete range of essential nutrients to complement a healthy diet and lifestyle. They help ensure sufficient levels of nutrients necessary for good health. And they are the first supplements we recommend taking as part of a complete nutritional supplement regimen.

Foundational supplements are the cornerstone in the HPDI supplement system. That is, HPDI offers a three-tiered system of nutritional supplements: Foundational Supplements, Enhancement Formulas, and Specific-Condition Formulas. The three “tiers” combined represent a complete nutritional supplement program. When customized appropriately to meet the needs of individuals, the three tiers of nutritional supplements help create optimal health.

You can visualize the HPDI supplement system as a cone or pyramid having a base of Foundational Supplements ascending toward an apex of Enhancement Formulas and Specific Condition Formulas.

The HPDI Supplement System includes six Foundational Supplements—four primary and two secondary—including multivitamins, vitamin C/antioxidants, essential fats, and Rejuvenate! superfoods.

We further break down the six foundational supplements into “primary” and “secondary” foundational supplements. The first four (listed above) being primary and the last two (gut health and hydrogen formulas) being secondary. This doesn’t mean that gut health or hydrogen formulas are less essential, depending on the person. But typically we recommend the first four in order.

We established the original three types of foundational supplements about 1988. We have always recommended multivitamins, vitamin C and antioxidants, and essential fats, as being the most important nutritional supplements for establishing and maintaining general health.

Two categories of foundational supplements were added more recently: gut health formulas (especially Restore) and hydrogen formulas. Hank wrote an article (Amending the HPDI Foundational Program) about these changes in April 2016. We added these two categories after much consideration regarding their benefits, and have written extensively about them (see Resources below).

The entire HPDI supplement system is depicted (above) as a cone. The six types of foundational supplements form the base of the cone. Enhancement Formulas and Specific-Condition formulas sit above toward the apex.

FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS: BEST PRACTICES

I recommend using all six types of HPDI foundational supplements. I personally take the following supplements (below) and present them here as an example of how they can be integrated into a complete supplement regimen. Foundational Supplements I take:

Taking one supplement from each of the six foundational supplement categories helps build, support, and maintain optimal health.

We at HPDI recommend everyone take one of each type of foundational supplement. That is, we suggest an individual select for personal use a multivitamin, vitamin C/antioxidant formula, essential fats formula, Rejuvenate!™ superfood (or other high-RNA superfood), hydrogen product, and at least one gut health product (typically RESTORE) depending on their gut-health needs).

Likewise, we suggest health care professionals recommend for their clients one of each of the six types of foundational supplements.

The other two categories in the HPDI nutritional supplement system are Enhancement Formulas and Specific-Condition Formulas (see cone diagram). These are not foundational supplements. However, I include the supplements I take in these categories to show how Enhancement and Specific-Condition Formulas fully integrate with Foundational Supplements to form a complete supplement program providing not only essential nutrients required for health, but also particular nutrients required by me. This makes the system fully “customizable” to individual needs.

Thus, I take supplements from all three categories (Foundationals, Enhancements, and Specific-Condition) in the HPDI supplement system. However, I always prioritize foundational supplements—I take them first—because they are the all-important “base” on which my personal supplement program rests.

Foundational supplements ideally are the base on which your supplement program—or those of your clients—rests, as well.

We have seen the results of taking a complete set of foundational supplements. They work because the nutrients they provide are needed by everyone.

Muti Two Caps is a high-potency multivitamin with advanced forms for optimal utilization in the body.

SYNERGY OF FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

Individuals who use all six types of foundational supplements do best in terms of optimizing health. The reason is that all six foundational supplements provide nutrients required for good health.

All six types of foundational supplement provide unique benefits. Yet, each performs functions required by the human body for good health. That is one reason when they are combined they exert synergistic effects for health going far beyond the benefits just using a few types of foundational supplements, depending on individual needs, of course.

A SYSTEM OF FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS IS NECESSARY

Individuals benefit from a structured system of supplements that can be tailored to their needs. Otherwise basic nutrients may be left out from daily intake.

For example, I know people who may or may not take a multivitamin. And they may or may not take vitamin C. Yet, they may take calcium for their bones, glucosamine for their joints, and lutein for their eyes. Or they may take a low-potency multivitamin providing merely the RDA for all nutrients.

It is fine that individuals take supplements they regard as important or useful. But that does not guarantee that a wide range—and sufficient levels—of nutrients necessary for health are available to the body on a regular basis.

In fact, I regard the supplement intake programs of most persons to be “hit-or-miss.” They may consume nutrients important for a few functions in the body, yet fail to obtain other essential nutrients required for the nutrients they take to work most effectively. We have written extensively on this topic on our website and in blog articles (see below).

Not taking regularly a complete set of foundational supplements likely means key nutrients (and key levels of nutrients) go missing. Over time, this means fewer and lower levels of nutrients available to support the body’s needs for them at levels known to sustain the good health.

The best way to ensure a sufficient range of nutrients at plentiful levels is to take foundational supplements. After a baseline of nutrients is established by taking foundational supplements, additional supplements can be added, as necessary. Following such a system and using it to customize a personal supplement regimen means there is a far better opportunity to obtain essential nutrients on a daily basis. And not to miss nutrients that help create optimal health.

A COMPLETE SUPPLEMENT SYSTEM INCLUDES FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

After obtaining sufficient levels of basic nutrients required for health, then a person can add (or you can recommend) specific nutrients or formulas that target certain problems or issues. This is the basis for HPDI’s creation of Enhancement Formulas and Specific-Condition Formulas.

Nutritional supplements in the categories of Enhancement Formulas and Specific-Condition Formulas “stack” on top of HPDI’s Foundational Supplements (see cone diagram above). In this way, a complete nutritional supplement program begins with the most essential nutrients and continues with customizations based on the unique needs of an individual.

ENHANCEMENT FORMULAS

Enhancement Formulas in the HPDI system are supplements we regard as falling into the next tier in terms of importance, at least for most people. They do not necessarily provide essential nutrients, and yet many people (including myself) benefit significantly from them.

Foundational Supplements are necessary because they provide nutrients foundational to health. Taking them daily or recommending your clients take them daily can help mean big differences in health, nutrition, and quality of life.

We at HPDI design our nutritional supplements to be the most effective dietary supplements available. HPDI products are known for: 1) Advanced Formulation (including use of superior forms of nutrients), 2) Ultra-High Purity, 3) Avoidance of Harmful Ingredients, and 4) being made with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). For more details, please see The HPDI Difference and our Statement on Additives (Excipients).

At least 40 of HPDI’s products are formulated by Dr. Hank Liers. They fall in all categories in HPDI’s supplement system. They can be found under “Dr. Hank Liers original formulas.”

ADDENDUM: THE BODYSYNC GENETIC TEST & ACTION PLAN

In recent years, genetic tests have become available that show gene variations can cause or predispose a person to serious conditions relating to important body functions such a lessened ability to process synthetic B vitamins (like folic acid), higher blood glucose levels, lower immune system function, and bone density problems relating to variants in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene, for example.

We recommend a genetic test to determine whether individuals have certain gene variations impacting health. HPDI has teamed with a genetic testing company (BodySync, Inc.) and sells BodySync test kits on our Reseller site. To read about the BodySync genetic test and test kits click here. Genes tested for in the Bodysync test include variations in genes impacting folate assimilation, cardiovascular health, detoxification, bone health, and more. Resellers can purchase the test kits directly from HPDI and retail customers can call us (800-228-4265) to find out how we can help them get a test kit and support them with any associated counseling regarding the results.

Genetic testing allows individuals to gain a clearer picture of where they may require additional or specific nutritional supplementation. In this respect, HPDI foundational supplements can play a significant role in providing the amounts and range of important nutrients that can help mitigate the adverse effects of certain gene variations in addition to diet, exercise, and lifestyle factors. After testing, you will receive a Bodysync Action Plan that makes recommendations for a healthy diet and lifestyle customized to your unique genetic profile.

FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

We frequently get questions from HPDI clients and resellers regarding foundational supplements. These questions include:

“Why did you add gut health and hydrogen products to your foundational supplements program?”
We found it necessary to add categories for gut health and hydrogen because they provide nutrients that are support the body and help ensure the foundational supplement system supports health most effectively. You can read more in previous blog articles (see below).

“Which is the better multivitamin: Multi Two or Mighty Multi-Vite!™?”It depends on whether you need more B vitamins or antioxidants. Multi Two provides more B vitamins and Mighty Multi-Vite™ provides more antioxidants and cofactors. I take a separate HPDI B-Complex-50 formula, so I take Mighty Multi-Vite!™ as my primary multivitamin.

“What are the differences between Rejuvenate!™ Original, PLUS, and Berries & Herbs superfoods?”They each provide about 340 mg of dietary nucleic acids. Original is the “greenest” with a large percentage of dietary nucleic acids coming from chlorella and spirunlina. PLUS is our most popular and 30% is identical to Original with more protein and a built-in multivitamin complex. Berries & Herbs contains no greens, yet more nucleic acids (390 mg), protein, and a built-in multivitamin. See our Rejuvenate! comparison page for more information.

“Should I take a vitamin C formula with antioxidants like PRO-C or one with Nrf2 activators like Ultimate Protector?”Both provide vitamin C and Nrf2 activators, but Ultimate Protector provides more types of Nrf2 activators. Ultimate Protector capsules are smaller than PRO-C capsules, so a daily dose may require taking more capsules.

“How important are hydrogen supplements?”Very important for energy production, recovery, antioxidant functions, and gut health. Hydrogen supplements like VR Tablets and Megahydrate ensure high levels of hydrogen are available in the body.

What are your best products for supporting gut health?It depends on your needs: cleansing (Intestinal Rejuvenation Formula), probiotic/microbiome support, or tightening tight junctions in the gut (RESTORE)? We offer products for all these purposes. Typically, the first gut health formula we recommend is RESTORE because so many people require extra support for microbiome health and to restore gut integrity.

These are just a few questions frequently asked about HPDI foundational supplements. If you need more information about products, please contact the HPDI office (800-228-4265) or email support@healthproductsdistributors.com.

You can also contact Fred Liers, PhD or Hank Liers, PhD (formulator) with questions you may have regarding specific products, single nutrients, or formulation.

HPDI foundational supplements are designed to provide a complete range of essential nutrients that complement a healthy diet and lifestyle. They help ensure sufficient levels of nutrients required for good health.

We define foundational supplements as basic or “core” supplements that should be part of everyone’s daily regimen. They are the foundation of a complete nutritional supplement program.

When properly combined, these three tiers of nutritional supplements help create optimal health. This month, I explain how to use HPDI foundational supplements, the base or bottom tier of the system (see cone diagram below).

The HPDI supplement system can be visualized as a cone having a base of Foundational Supplements ascending toward an apex of Enhancement Formulas and Specific Condition Formulas.

The HPDI Supplement System includes six types of Foundational Supplements forming its base.

USING HPDI FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

My intent is to guide consumers and health care professionals to decide the foundational supplements that are best for their purposes, and that provide the most effective results.

We established the original three types of foundational supplements about 1988. We have always suggested that clients and health professionals take and/or recommend multivitamins, vitamin C and antioxidants, and essential fats.

Two categories of foundational supplements are new: gut health formulas and hydrogen formulas. Hank wrote an article (Amending the HPDI Foundational Program) about these changes in April. We added these two categories after much consideration regarding their benefits, and have written extensively about them in this blog (see resources section below).

The entire HPDI supplement system is depicted (above) as a cone. The six types of foundational supplements form the base of the cone. Enhancement Formulas and Specific-Condition formulas sit above toward the apex.

HOW I USE HPDI FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

I use all six types of HPDI foundational supplements. I take the following supplements (below) and present them here as an example of how they can be integrated into a complete supplement regimen. Foundational Supplements I take:

Taking one supplement from each of the six foundational supplement categories builds, supports, and maintains optimal health.

We at HPDI recommend everyone take one of each type of foundational supplement. That is, we suggest an individual select for personal use a multivitamin, vitamin C/antioxidant formula, essential fats formula, Rejuvenate!™ superfood (or other high-RNA superfood), hydrogen product, and at least one gut health product (depending on their gut-health needs).

Similarly we suggest health care professionals recommend for their clients one of each of the six types of foundational supplements.

The other two categories in the HPDI nutritional supplement system are Enhancement Formulas and Specific-Condition Formulas (see cone diagram). These are not foundational supplements. However, I include the supplements I take in these categories for the sake of completeness, as well as to show how Enhancement and Specific-Condition Formulas integrate with Foundational Supplements to form a complete supplement program providing a wide-range of essential nutrients required for health.

While I take supplements from all three categories (Foundationals, Enhancements, and Specific-Condition) in the HPDI supplement system, I always prioritize foundational supplements—I take them first—because they are base on which my personal supplement program rests.

Foundational supplements should be the base on which your supplement program—or those of your clients—rests, as well.

We have seen the results of taking a complete set of foundational supplements. They work because the nutrients they provide are needed by everyone.

Muti Two Caps is a high-potency multi with coenzyme forms for optimal utilization in the body.

FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS: RESULTS

Individuals who take all types of foundational supplements do best in terms of optimizing health. The reason is that all six types provide nutrients required for good health.

I can attest that HPDI Foundational Supplements are effective for improving or maintaining good health. In addition, I have witnessed numerous instances where individuals benefit most greatly when taking all four–and now all six–types of foundational supplements.

Each of the six categories of foundational supplement provide unique benefits. Yet, each performs functions required by the human body for good health. That is one reason when they are combined they exert synergistic effects for health going far beyond the benefits of using, one, two, or three of the types of foundational supplements.

WHEN FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS ARE NOT PRIORITIZED

I talk to people who may or may not take a multivitamin. And they may or may not take vitamin C. Yet, they may take calcium for their bones, glucosamine for their joints, and lutein for their eyes. Or they may take a low-potency, off-the-shelf multivitamin providing merely the RDA for all nutrients.

There is nothing wrong with individuals taking supplements they regard as important or useful. But that cannot guarantee that a wide range—and sufficient levels—of nutrients necessary for health are available to the body on a regular basis.

In fact, I regard the supplement intake programs of most persons to be “hit-or-miss.” They may consume nutrients important for a few functions in the body, yet fail to obtain other essential nutrients required for the nutrients they take to work most effectively. We have written extensively on this topic on our website and in blog articles (see below).

Not taking regularly a complete set of foundational supplements likely means key nutrients (and key levels of nutrients) go missing. Over time, this means fewer and lower levels of nutrients available to support the body’s needs for them at levels known to sustain the good health.

The best way to ensure a sufficient range of nutrients at plentiful levels is to take foundational supplements. After a baseline of nutrients is established by taking foundational supplements, additional supplements can be added, as necessary.

A COMPLETE SYSTEM OF SUPPLEMENTS, INCLUDING FOUNDATIONALS

After obtaining sufficient levels of basic nutrients required for health, then a person can add (or you can recommend) specific nutrients or formulas that target certain problems or issues. This is the basis for HPDI development of Enhancement Formulas and Specific-Condition Formulas.

Nutritional supplements in the categories of Enhancement Formulas and Specific-Condition Formulas therefore “stack” on top of HPDI’s Foundational Supplements (see cone diagram above). In this way, a complete nutritional supplement program begins with the most essential nutrients and continues with customizations based on the unique needs of an individual.

ENHANCEMENT FORMULAS

Enhancement Formulas in the HPDI system are supplements we regard as falling into the next tier in terms of importance, at least for most people. They do not necessarily provide essential nutrients, and yet many people (including myself) benefit significantly from them.

Foundational Supplements are necessary because they provide nutrients foundational to health. Taking them daily or recommending your clients take them daily can help mean big differences in health, nutrition, and quality of life.

We at HPDI design our nutritional supplements to be the most effective dietary supplements available. HPDI products are known for: 1) Advanced Formulation (including use of superior forms of nutrients), 2) Ultra-High Purity, 3) Avoidance of Harmful Ingredients, and 4) being made with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). For more details, please see The HPDI Difference and our Statement on Additives (Excipients).

At least 40 of HPDI’s products are formulated by Dr. Hank Liers. They fall in all categories in HPDI’s supplement system. They can be found under “Dr. Hank Liers original formulas.”

FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

We frequently get questions from HPDI clients and resellers regarding foundational supplements. These questions include:

“Why did you add gut health and hydrogen products to your foundational supplements program?”
We found it necessary to add categories for gut health and hydrogen because they provide nutrients that are support the body and help ensure the foundational supplement system supports health most effectively. You can read more in previous blog articles (see below).

“Which is the better multivitamin: Multi Two or Mighty Multi-Vite!™?”It depends on whether you need more B vitamins or antioxidants. Multi Two provides more B vitamins and Mighty Multi-Vite™ provides more antioxidants and cofactors. I take a separate HPDI B-Complex-50 formula, so I take Mighty Multi-Vite!™ as my primary multivitamin.

“What are the differences between Rejuvenate!™ Original, PLUS, and Berries & Herbs superfoods?”They each provide about 340 mg of dietary nucleic acids. Original is the “greenest” with a large percentage of dietary nucleic acids coming from chlorella and spirunlina. PLUS is our most popular and 30% is identical to Original with more protein and a built-in multivitamin complex. Berries & Herbs contains no greens, yet more nucleic acids (390 mg), protein, and a built-in multivitamin. See our Rejuvenate! comparison page for more information.

“Should I take a vitamin C formula with antioxidants like PRO-C or one with Nrf2 activators like Ultimate Protector?”Both provide vitamin C and Nrf2 activators, but Ultimate Protector provides more types of Nrf2 activators. Ultimate Protector capsules are smaller than PRO-C capsules, so a daily dose may require taking more capsules.

“How important are hydrogen supplements?”Very important for energy production, recovery, antioxidant functions, and gut health. Hydrogen supplements like Active H2 and Megahydrate ensure high levels of hydrogen are available in the body.

What are your best products for supporting gut health?It depends on your needs: cleansing (Intestinal Rejuvenation Formula), probiotic/microbiome support (Prescript-Assist™), or tightening tight junctions in the gut (RESTORE)? We offer products for all these purposes.

These are just a few questions frequently asked about HPDI foundational supplements. If you need more information about products, please contact the HPDI office (800-228-4265) or email support@healthproductsdistributors.com.

You can also contact Fred Liers, PhD (520-400-0155) or Hank Liers, PhD (formulator) with questions you may have regarding products, ingredients, or formulation.

Joe has digestive tract issues, including extreme diverticulosis. While I have provided him with suggestions for improved nutrition and supplement use in recent years, he hasn’t followed any of my recommendations seriously.

Instead Joe opted for a more conventional route. Now his situation has worsened dramatically, and he says he’s ready to start a program of improved nutrition and supplements. That’s good, even though it would be easier had he started sooner. Like I said, Joe is a good friend. I wish him health and happiness.

My initial advice to Joe remains the same as it would be for everyone. He should start with a dietary changes and a solid program of foundational supplements like those in the HPDI Foundational Supplements Program. He can later add enhancements and condition-specific formulas addressing his unique needs.

WHY FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS?

The HPDI Foundational Supplements program was developed by Hank Liers, PhD to provide optimal levels of basic nutrients important for good health. In our experience, the HPDI program works to support vibrant health. It also helps cover gaps left by poor diet, incomplete nutritional supplementation, and imbalances due to genetic factors. It helps to compensate for lower nutrients levels found in many modern foods both processed and/or produced by modern industrial agricultural methods (i.e., that deplete soils or block nutrient uptake).

HPDI’s foundational supplements program includes six categories of dietary supplements.

JOE’S DIET IS NOT SO GOOD

I don’t like to be overly prescriptive about food. But Joe is a “carb” lover and with a history of consuming processed, high-sugar foods, and junk foods. For example, processed breads, donuts, candy bars, and soda have been staples for years. It doesn’t help many of these foods either are GMO or high in glyphosate (the main ingredient in the herbicide RoundUp), which is known to produce adverse gastrointestinal (and other harmful) effects.

He has reduced his intake of high-carb, sugary foods in recent years. In fact, he has significantly cut back on simple sugars because he finds they drain his energy and don’t help his digestion.

I suggested he continue cutting back on simple carbs and sugars, and that he add more fresh vegetables and high-quality proteins to his diet. I recommend organically grown and non-GMO foods.

I can’t say what caused Joe’s diverticulosis. But I can say that changes in his diet are necessary to support optimal health, as well as healing of damage to his digestive tract.

It doesn’t help that Joe takes several drugs, including a long-term antibiotic for a stubborn urinary tract infection, and a laxative (containing polyethylene glycol) for his constipation and diverticulosis. These drugs may help in the short term, but they far from ideal for long-term use.

Joe himself isn’t pleased with his need for drugs. He intends ultimately to stop them when possible.

He has been having trouble sleeping in recent years. I suspect this may be related to his troubles with his intestinal tract, dysbiosis, and possibly issues with his microbiome.

SUPPLEMENTATION

Joe sent me his supplement schedule and results from a few health tests to review. He has “nutrition-oriented” doctors whose advice he follows quite rigorously.

I reviewed his supplement schedule and health test results. His results include some in-depth genetic tests, which provide insights into potential health concerns, and practical advice for nutritional supplementation.

IMBALANCES CALL FOR FOUNDATIONAL NUTRITION

I saw glaring gaps in Joe’s supplement schedule. There are major imbalances in his supplement program. For example, I see no multivitamins or vitamin C/antioxidant formula, which are basic to the HPDI foundational program.

Indeed, for all the good elements, his program unfortunately is hit-or-miss in terms of providing a complete spectrum of essential nutrients.

On the upside, he’s been taking a few specific-nutrient supplements daily:

5,000 mg of vitamin D (25-hydroxy).

3,000 mg of Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) and 1,000 mg of flax seed oil.

He gets some coenzyme B vitamins:

2,000 mcg of a methyl folate (MTHF)

1,000 mcg of B12 as methylcobalamin daily.

Taking these standalone coenzyme B vitamins is good because test results indicate he has the heterozygous genotype for the MTHFR C677T (C/T) and MTHFR A1298C (A/C). The presence of both polymorphisms can result in significantly reduced activity of MTHFR potentially leading to reduced production of the active form of folate (L-methylfolate).

As his test results stated: “Reduced levels of L-methylfolate lead to decreased production of neurotransmitters, reduced conversion of homocysteine to methionine, and reduced s-adenosylmethionie (SAMe) concentrations.”

GAPS: HIT OR MISS ON FOUNDATIONALS

I asked about his multivitamin and vitamin C intake. He said he takes them despite the fact they are absent from his supplement schedule. I supposed they were absent from his schedule because his doctors want to make sure he gets his vitamin D, folate, methylcobalamin, and essential fats, but aren’t too concerned about whether or not he takes a complete multivitamin, vitamin C/antioxidant formula, or complete B-complex vitamins.

Joe told me he takes a multivitamin, B-complex, and vitamin C supplement. But didn’t take all of them daily. All three products came from a “big-box” store known for low prices.

Joe therefore consumed a few specific, advanced, medical-quality formulas at the direction of his doctors. Yet, he purchased low-end multivitamin, vitamin C, and B-complex products that can or should be the foundation of his supplement program.

His multivitamin was a low-potency formula providing only 3–500% of the daily value for most nutrients with many at exactly 100%. Not only is this multivitamin low-potency, but its forms are conventional (no coenzyme vitamins or advanced forms). Moreover, it is full of unnecessary additives and fillers like polyethylene glycol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and sodium benzoate.

His vitamin C was 500 mg. He didn’t take it every day and when he did, he took only one or two.

WHAT I DID FOR JOE

Joe and I talked about his situation. He agreed to receive a package of supplements. Actually, I attempted several years ago to help him get onto a foundational supplements program. He took some supplements and he definitely noticed a difference in how he felt. Yet, he wasn’t ready to take a complete system of high-quality supplements. He finally agreed to try the program.

Joe now takes the Mighty Multi-Vite! and PRO-C, as well as Myo-Mag (magnesium) daily. He is already noticing he needs less of his laxative, and has scaled back his dosage. He can see the day is coming when he can wean himself entirely of it. He has updated his supplement schedule to include all of his supplements, so he can better track his supplement intake and ensure consistency.

I also sent him a Warrior Sleep for his sleeping troubles, and a bottle of Restore, which may help his intestinal tract and problems related to it.

PRO-C is one of HPDI’s premier vitamin C / antioxidant formulas.

In forthcoming blog posts I plan to document the status of Joe’s health, including his energy levels and subjective feelings about his health. We will see how foundational supplements help him.

Not everyone is as fortunate as as Joe to have a friend who will send supplements and more importantly, talk to him in depth about nutrition and the need for foundational supplements.

WHAT JOE CAN DO FOR HIMSELF

It is my hope that Joe will follow the foundational supplements program, regain some health, and continue to improve by remaining on the program with HPDI supplements. He can take on his foundational supplements program as a mission for his own long-term health.

I also hope Joe’s experience with HPDI supplements will be an example to others who may be in similar situations. This includes individuals who don’t know where to begin, and those who take a variety of supplements yet aren’t receiving a full complement of essential nutrients.

Others who may be in similar situations to Joe’s include those who take supplements as directed by their doctor, but whose supplement schedule is “hit-or-miss,” which I suspect is a lot of people. Or those taking low-potency multivitamins or B-complex vitamins or just 500 mg of vitamin C daily. Also those taking basic supplements sporadically or whenever they “feel like it.”

Joe is far from being alone in having significant gaps in his foundation of essential nutrients that support good health. His doctors missed those gaps despite their best intentions to provide him with advanced nutrients based on genetic testing to assess potential deficiencies. “Losing sight of the forest for the trees” can happen to the best of us. In fact, the average person’s nutrient profile is not unlike Joe’s in many respects. And like Joe’s situation, foundational supplements can help close the gaps.

FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS CAN LEAD TO BETTER HEALTH

There are many reasons I feel confident that HPDI foundational supplements will continue helping Joe. Not only am I not surprised he is noticing results, but also I’ve seen health improve in many (perhaps hundreds of) individuals when they begin a complete foundational supplements program, and then especially when they maintain it.

Good results are not surprising when the levels of nutrients increase from just 100% of the daily value for most nutrients to much higher levels.

Results improve over time when the body continues receiving high levels of essential nutrients.

Dietary supplements are generally non-toxic so there is little risk of problems when the body receives more than adequate nutrients to meet its needs.

And why take just the minimum? Minimum amounts of nutrients tend to perpetuate deficiencies when you consider factors like poor diet, increased oxidative stress, toxic exposures (leading to greater nutrient needs to support detoxification), and genetic factors (e.g., enzyme deficiencies).

All six of these types of formulas comprise the HPDI Foundational Supplements Program. It is our belief that these six types of formulas are foundational to health regardless of whether you use HPDI’s supplements or those of another company (as long as they are high-quality, high-potency, provide the proper forms, and do not contain unnecessary excipients or toxic ingredients).

The HPDI foundational supplement program is the result of many years of product formulation, evaluating scientific research, following the experience of end-users, feedback from doctors and other clients, and staying on the cutting-edge of nutritional science. HPDI is known for updating its formulas as new information becomes available regarding better forms of nutrients, or means form improving nutrient uptake or utilization.

HPDI FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

HPDI formulates four of the six types of formulas in the Foundational Supplements Program.

HPDI foundational supplements are formulated by Dr. Hank Liers, PhD. Hank is known for formulas that utilize only the highest-purity and highest-quality ingredients, and for his emphasis on natural forms (e.g., coenzyme forms) best recognized and utilized by the body.

FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS ARE FUNDAMENTAL

Foundational supplements are the foundation for good health. That is why we call them foundational. This is also why we believe so strongly in providing a strong foundation of nutrients before recommending what we call enhancement formulas, specific-condition formulas, or other add-ons (such as a soil-based probiotic formula).

That is to say, a given individual will possibly have many requirements for nutrients specific to their needs. Such formulas may include magnesium, iodine, certain B vitamins like coenzyme folate (5-MTHF). An individual may also require formulas specific to certain issues, concerns, or organ systems, such as formulas targeting joint health, bone health, allergies, blood sugar, liver health, and others. In fact, HPDI formulates formulas specific to these needs.

Yet, before specific needs are addressed, or at least concurrently, HPDI believes that foundational nutrients must provide the base or foundation upon which all other nutrients, condition-specific formulas, or enhancement formulas rest.

One danger, as we saw with Joe’s supplement schedule before he started taking HPDI foundational supplements, was putting the cart before the horse. That is, finding a person in a situation where there are several or numerous advanced nutrients being taken. Yet, where the “base” is relatively weak due to low-potency supplements and/or lack of basic nutrients. In this type of situation, it is less likely that the addition of several advanced nutrients can make as much of a difference for health because key nutrients are missing.

Missing key nutrients prevents certain advanced nutrients or even higher levels of specific nutrients from doing their job because major imbalances can render those nutrients useless, less bioavailable, or unable to contribute what they could were there a sufficiency of the basic nutrients required to support all biochemical processes in the body. We have written much on this topic—please see the resources section (below) for more information.

The point is that without a plentiful supply of basic nutrients in ideal forms, which is exactly what is provided by foundational supplements (and almost never by diet alone), a person will remain vulnerable to many nutrient deficiencies. Nutrient deficiencies (especially when they are prolonged over time) can result in less than optimal health.

By simply providing optimal levels of all basic nutrients, foundational supplements support the body by covering its nutritional needs, not unlike insurance. Moreover, they are generally inexpensive (relative to conventional health care costs) even for the highest-quality supplements, such as HPDI formulas.

CONCLUSION

Foundational supplements remain fundamental for health. Nothing can replace them. Before starting single nutrients or condition-specific formulas, it is important to obtain a full complement of basic nutrients that support bodily function.

After basic nutrition is attained through foundational supplements, diet, and appropriate lifestyle changes, then other types of nutritional supplements (such as enhancement formulas and specific-condition formulas) may be added to form a complete nutritional supplement system.

Key Takeaways:

• More people are getting advanced forms of specific vitamins and minerals in supplement form, usually at the direction of their doctor or nutritionist

• Few people obtain a complete, high-potency multivitamin

• Fewer still consume high-quality forms of all basic nutrients (provided by good diet and foundational supplements)

These reasons remain true today. But the three categories have become greater factors than previously. They seem to have gotten dramatically worse over time.

Due to these factors, and in light of new understandings based on scientific and clinical research, I have decided to amend the HPDI Foundational Supplements Program.

Consequently, in this article, I am introducing two new categories to the HPDI Foundational Program. These are: 1) Gut Health/Microbiome products and 2) Hydrogen products. The complete amended program is illustrated by the diagram below.

1.1. Diagram of the newly amended HPDI Foundational Supplements Program

HISTORY OF HPDI FOUNDATIONAL SUPPLEMENTS PROGRAM

The original HPDI foundational program was initially called the “Core Program” and consisted of a therapeutic multivitamin, a vitamin C/antioxidant formula, and an essential fatty acid product. The essence of the foundation was based upon over 70 years of research during which the basic elements of nutrition were elucidated.

ADDING RNA TO THE CORE PROGRAM

When we became aware of the work of Dr. Benjamin S. Frank regarding ribonucleic acids (RNA) and the powerful affects RNA had on the body independently of the other nutritional components of the “Core Program”, it was clear that a new element was necessary and we developed and added High-RNA superfoods to our program.

Amending the HPDI Foundational Supplements Program is a necessity based upon important new research and clinical studies. Even today many people do not understand the importance of RNA and its role in implementing the basic DNA structures of the body.

One reason that RNA has become so much more important than it was 40–50 years ago is that diets have basically become devoid of RNA. Muscle meats and processed foods have little RNA and the population is no longer eating sufficient high-RNA foods such as organ meats, fresh fish, and certain vegetables.

What are foundational supplements? This booklet offers suggestions for improving intake of essential nutrients.

ADDING GUT HEALTH / MICROBIOME TO THE FOUNDATIONAL PROGRAM

More recently, the scientific community has discovered the importance of the human microbiome to our health. It is known there are about 10 times more bacterial cells living on and in the human body than the number of cells in our body. The amount of DNA carried by these bacterial cells is about 100 times the amount in our cells!! Many of these bacterial cells reside in the human gut. It is proven that these gut bacteria play a major role in keeping us healthy.

The issue of of how to create a healthy human microbiome is very complex. The problems start with how we grow our food. Beneficial, natural soil bacteria play an important role in helping to create healthy gut bacteria.

Yet, farming methods over the last 50-60 years have been oriented to the use of herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers. These methods have basically destroyed much of the healthy bacteria in our soils. This means these bacteria cannot be passed on to the human gut.

In addition, the overuse of antibiotics in both animals and humans has further destroyed more of the healthy bacteria available to us.

According to Dr. Zachary Bush, healthy gut bacteria protect us from conditions of leaky gut. Without the healthy gut bacteria humans develop conditions of leaky gut, which leads to toxicity in the body from a variety of sources including pesticides (especially Roundup/glyphosate), antibiotics, medications, gluten, anti-inflammatories (such as ibuprofen), etc.

Recent findings regarding the human microbiome clearly indicate the absolute necessity of finding ways to build a strong human microbiome. There are multiple ways a person can do this including healthy diets, avoidance of toxic chemicals and drugs, and with the use of certain supplements.

Dr. Bush has discovered a supplement using redox molecules found in lignite. These molecules were deposited in the lignite material millions of years ago by a broad range of healthy soil bacteria.

By extracting and activating these molecules and putting them into a liquid product called RESTORE™ he found that when people consumed this liquid they could regenerate a broad range of good bacteria in the gut (20,000–30,000 species). He also found they could simultaneously repair conditions of leaky gut. RESTORE™ also significantly helps with dehydration issues, which is another key factor in achieving good health.

Based on the importance of having a broad range of healthy gut bacteria and a robust microbiome—and RESTORE’s ability to cause this to happen—we have chosen to add RESTORE™ to our amended HPDI Foundational program. HPDI is now carrying this product in 8 oz and 32 oz sizes. This product should be taken daily at an appropriate dose for you (up to 3 tablespoons daily).

ADDING HYDROGEN TO THE HPDI FOUNDATIONAL PROGRAM

Hydrogen is among the most fundamental elements in the universe and makes up a large percentage of all molecules. It is known that hydrogen and oxygen are key ingredients in the mitochondria used to make ATP, the principal energy molecule of the human body.

What was not known about hydrogen until recently was its powerful ability to safely trap free radicals and to stimulate the production of ATP.

Many studies have been conducted over the past 20 years showing the power of hydrogen in either the molecular hydrogen form or the hydride form.

More recently, a number of hydrogen products have become available. These include molecular hydrogen tablets, silica hydride capsules, molecular hydrogen drinks, water ionizers producing molecular hydrogen, molecular hydrogen water purifiers, etc.

Based upon the research and product availability, we are amending the HPDI Foundation Supplement program to include silica hydride capsules (Megahydrate™) and molecular hydrogen tablets (Active H2) under the category of hydrogen.

Megahydrate™also plays a major role in hydrating the cells of the body. It is now feasible for people to take hydrogen products on a daily basis at reasonable cost. The benefits can be immense!

SUMMARY

Based on current research—and the availability of breakthrough products—we have amended the HPDI Foundation Supplement Program. The recommended program now includes:

We believe that to achieve optimal health these six types of supplements ideally need to be taken on a daily basis.

Over the next several months, we will update our websites to document more fully the amendments we have introduced to the HPDI Foundational Supplements Program.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

An interview (see link below) by Dr. Pompa of Dr. Stephanie Seneff provides extremely important information regarding how GMOs are destroying the health of so many people, especially our children (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PidYStbzHY).